More surprising benefits of napping

The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, post-traumatic arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Although there is no cure, many studies have shown that simple changes in daily habits can significantly reduce arthritis symptoms, according to the health website Medical News Today (UK).

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In fact, a short nap not only helps the body recover but also brings many other benefits for people with arthritis.

A 20-minute nap can help relieve joint pain.

A 20 to 30 minute nap in the early afternoon, between 12 and 2 p.m., can reduce the pain caused by arthritis. A study from the University of Michigan (USA) showed that people who nap regularly have a better pain tolerance than those who do not nap.

This is because sleep triggers tissue repair and regulates neurotransmitters like serotonin and endorphins, which are natural pain relievers.

In addition, napping also helps the brain rest, thereby calming the central nervous system, reducing sensitivity to pain. This is a common problem in people with chronic arthritis. In particular, for people with rheumatoid arthritis, regular naps help reduce pressure on the joints and reduce overall pain during the rest of the day.

Reduce inflammation

Inflammation is at the core of all forms of arthritis. An early afternoon nap can naturally regulate the inflammatory response.

According to research published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, just a 30-minute nap can reverse the inflammatory effects caused by sleep deprivation, specifically reducing levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-alpha. This not only soothes swollen joints but also slows down the degeneration of joint tissue.

Boost immunity

Arthritis, especially autoimmune forms like rheumatoid arthritis, is closely linked to a disorder of the immune system. A healthy immune system helps control inflammation and protects the body from factors that aggravate the disease.

Napping may support immunity by regulating T-cell activity, increasing natural killer cell production, and decreasing the hormone cortisol. This mechanism helps prevent acute inflammation and reduces the frequency of symptom flare-ups, according to Medical News Today .